First reaction is to rub it, which only makes the problem worse.

Here are a few tips to remove grit or foreign bodies from the eye:

o Wash eye generously with clear tap water or give tears a chance to wash out speck

o If object is under the upper lid, lift upper lid outward and down over lower lid so that foreign body may stick to it

o Try to wipe speck gently with a moistened sterile gauze or moistened tip of a clean handkerchief

o If object is under lower lid, pull down lower lid and wipe off speck gently if foreign object doesn’t come out:

o Keep eye closed

o Place gauze pads or clean cloth over both eyes and hold in place lightly with adhesive tape

o Seek medical help immediately if eye is cut or scratched:

o Do not wash eye out with water

o Bandage lightly

o Get to a doctor at once

WESTMORELAND COUNTY
AREA AGENCY ON AGING
INFORMATION LINE
200 S. MAIN STREET
GREENSBURG, PA 15601
CONTACT: BEVERLY TROVATO
Ph: (724) 830-4444
Toll Free: 1 (800) 442-8000